Gourmet Happy Hour in Your Kitchen

Grabbing a drink after work or visiting a new restaurant is fun, but sometimes you just want to sit back and relax at home. Thankfully, that doesn't mean you need to sacrifice epic appetizers and tasty beverages. Just spend a few minutes planning an at-home happy hour!

A cheesy appetizer and a drink is always a treat, whether alone after a hard day at work or with friends in a low-key party atmosphere. Try our simple ideas for foodie-friendly fare that won't take much fuss in the kitchen. The ultimate at home relaxer!

Beer with Goat Cheese on Baguette with Grapes
Ile de France chèvre is smooth and tangy – it's delicious spread over a crusty baguette. Pair with juicy red or green grapes. Add some brews to the mix to make your DIY happy hour complete. Goat Cheese is best with light beers and wheat beers. Cheeses with stronger flavors, like Bleu d'Auvergne can be substituted and swerved with stronger beers like porters, imperial stouts, and IPA.

Wine with Brie Cheese & Ham on Crackers
Authentic French Brie and a glass of wine transforms cheese and crackers from boring snack to gourmand's delight! Turn your kitchen into a Parisian Bistro with gourmet mini sandwiches of salty ham and Ile de France Brie. They make a perfect companion to wine – Brie is fabulously easy to pair and delicious with everything from sparkling wines to Pinot Gris – anything fruity that's not too sharp or heavy.

Cocktails with Baked Brie, Honey & Toasted Nuts
If cocktails are more your happy hour taste, try a little kitchen mixology! For a more adventurous version of classic baked Brie, try making baked Camembert and serving with cocktails infused with fresh flavors. Bake a portion of Camembert until deliciously melted, then top with honey and serve with crackers and nuts. Mojitos are a great sweet pair for savory Camembert - a wonderful way to welcome the warmer spring weather. For something less sweet, try another classic cocktail - gin and tonic. Its crisp texture has the perfect acidity to cut through creamy cheese.